Allergy Shots Are Effective Treatment for Symptoms

Immunotherapy allergy shots are helpful for those having allergic asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis or stinging insect allergies according to American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).

Immunotherapy is a form of treatment that aims to decrease sensitivity to substances called allergens.

Patients who receive immunotherapy are injected with increasing amounts of an allergen until the target therapeutic dose is reached. These allergens include pollen, mold or animal dander which could trigger allergy symptoms when an allergic person is exposed to them.

Immunotherapy is an effort to build resistance to specific allergens. Relief of allergy symptoms can last long after completion of treatment and that immunotherapy helps prevent the development of new allergies and may prevent the progression of allergic rhinitis to asthma.

While immunotherapy is recommended for people with allergic asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and stinging insect allergies, it's not recommended for those with food allergies, according to the AAAAI. The best option for people with food allergies is to avoid foods that pose a danger.

People should see a doctor about immunotherapy if they:

1) Have a clear relationship between asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and exposure to an allergen,
2) Have a poor response to allergy medication or avoidance measures,
3) Have a long duration of allergy symptoms (most of the year),
4) Are a child with rhinitis, because of the potential role of allergen immunotherapy in the progression of allergic disease.